Brushing and Flossing

While it's always important to maintain good oral health, it's even more crucial when you have braces. If you don’t take proper care of your teeth during your orthodontic treatment, they can become stained. To avoid staining, brush and floss your teeth after each meal. We are happy to recommend various products such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss.

Brushing with Braces

Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled brush for two minutes after eating. We suggest using an American Dental Association approved toothpaste and mouthwash for the best results. For even more effective brushing, you can use an electric toothbrush. Brush back and fourth with the head of your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. Make sure to brush the inside of your mouth, including the back of your teeth where you chew, the exterior of your front teeth, around and in between your braces, and your tongue.

Flossing with Braces

Flossing removes excess food stuck in your teeth or braces. If you don’t floss, food can build up and develop bacteria and cause other issues over time. You want to keep your mouth clean to give your braces a healthy environment to function in. To floss with braces, use a floss threader or orthodontic floss. Pull out a thread of floss, usually about six inches long, wrap each end around both of your index fingers. Loop the floss under your wires and floss between your teeth. It’s important to floss each tooth because harmful bacteria can build on any of your teeth. If you find this way of flossing is a hassle or want more effective results, use a water flosser.